By Sekaggya Seka Moses
In a historic ceremony held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Professor Kithure Kindiki has been sworn in as Kenya’s 13th deputy president.
This milestone event follows Thursday’s ruling by a three-judge bench that paved the way for Prof. Kindiki’s inauguration.
Thousands of Kenyans gathered at the KICC to witness the swearing-in, which marks a significant shift in Kenya’s political landscape.
Prof. Kindiki, the outgoing Interior Cabinet Secretary, takes over from Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached by the National Assembly and removed from office by the Kenyan Senate on October 17.
Gachagua’s efforts to block Prof. Kindiki’s swearing-in were thwarted when the High Court lifted conservatory orders issued on October 18.
The court cited the need for continuity in the deputy president’s office, stating that the position cannot remain vacant.
President William Ruto nominated Prof. Kindiki as Gachagua’s replacement, and the National Assembly approved his nomination.
However, Gachagua’s appeal to stay the proceedings and resolutions was initially successful, only to be overturned by the High Court on Thursday.
With Prof. Kindiki’s swearing-in, Kenya has its third deputy president.
His inauguration was published in the gazette, notifying the public of the ceremony’s details.
As Prof. Kindiki assumes his new role, he brings with him a wealth of experience, having served as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Administration of National Government and Senator for Tharaka-Nithi County.
